It’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month: Are You Doing Enough?

It’s Cybersecurity Awareness Month: Are You Doing Enough?
 
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, which sounds like one of those things you're supposed to care about but don't have time for. We get it. But if you run a small business, this might be the most important 5 minutes you spend this month.
Here's the truth: cybersecurity isn't just an IT problem. It's a business survival issue. If you own or manage a small or medium-sized business, now is the perfect time to ask yourself a hard question: "Am I really doing enough to protect my business from cyber threats?"

Why Cybersecurity Matters More Than Ever

Small businesses are now prime targets for cybercriminals. Not because you have millions to steal, but because you're busy running a business, not monitoring security logs. Attackers know this. According to the 2025 Data Breach Investigation Report (SMB Snapshot),

• 96% of SMB breaches come from just three tactics: system intrusions, phishing/social engineering, and basic web application attacks
• Even more alarming, 88% of SMB breaches involve ransomware, compared to just 39% at larger organizations

Not because they're weak, but because one attack can drain resources, destroy customer trust, and halt operations completely.

Top 5 Cyber Threats Every SMB Should Know

Here’s a quick look at the most common threats affecting businesses like yours:
1. Phishing Attacks: Fake emails, texts, or links designed to trick you or your staff into clicking or giving away sensitive info like passwords.
2. Weak Passwords: Using simple or repeated passwords across systems makes it easy for hackers to break in.
3. Ransomware: Software designed to lock you out of your own files and hold them hostage until you pay up, often thousands of dollars, with no guarantee you'll get your data back.
4. Unprotected Devices: Every laptop, phone, and tablet your team uses is a potential entry point. If someone loses a device or it gets stolen, is your business data protected?
5. Poor Backup Practices: If your data isn’t backed up properly, one attack or crash could wipe out everything you’ve built.

Your Basic Cybersecurity Action Plan

You don’t need a massive IT budget to stay protected. Here are 5 simple things you can do this month to improve your cybersecurity:
Change Passwords & Use MFA
Make sure every employee uses strong, unique passwords. Add multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible.
Train Your Team
Employees are your first line of defense. Teach them how to spot phishing scams and what to do if they’re unsure.
Update Software
Outdated apps and operating systems are open doors for hackers. Always install security updates right away.
Secure Your Devices
Use antivirus software, screen locks, and encryption on all business devices — especially laptops and phones.
Back Up Your Data
Set up automatic backups and store them in secure, off-site locations or cloud systems.

Use This Month to Take Action

October isn’t just about raising awareness; it’s about taking action. Every small step you take can save your business from a major disaster later.
If you’re not sure where to begin or feel overwhelmed by all the options, don’t worry, you’re not alone. ALLO Business is here to review your current setup, identify weak spots, and help you build a simple, affordable security plan tailored to your business.
For a quick assessment, Contact Jeffrey McCorvey to receive a Cybersecurity Checklist to see your current cybersecurity posture.
Protect your business. Protect your people. Start now.
Because doing nothing is the biggest risk of all.
 
 
Sources: Verizon DBIR team. (2025, April 23). 2025 Data Breach Investigations Report 2025 Data Breach Investigations - Report Small and Medium Sized Business Snapshot. Verizon Business. https://www.verizon.com/business/resources/infographics/2025-dbir-smb-snapshot.pdf